Aromatherapy means
"treatment using scents". The
essential oils are aromatic essences extracted from plants, flowers, trees,
fruits, bark, grasses and seeds with distinctive therapeutic, psychological,
and physiological properties, which improve and prevent illness.
The essential oils are
added to the bath or massaged into the skin, inhaled directly or diffused to
scent an entire room. Aromatherapy is used for the relief of pain, care for the
skin, alleviate tension and fatigue and invigorate the entire body. Essential
oils can affect the mood, alleviate fatigue, reduce anxiety and promote
relaxation. When inhaled, they work on the brain and nervous system through
stimulation of the olfactory nerves.
Most of these oils have
antiseptic properties; some are antiviral, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving,
antidepressant and expectorant. Other properties of the essential oils which
are taken advantage of in aromatherapy are their stimulation, relaxation,
digestion improvement, and diuretic properties. To get the maximum benefit from
essential oils, it should be made from natural, pure raw materials. Synthetically
made oils do not work.
The oils are mixed with
another substance (such as oil, alcohol, or lotion) and then put on the skin,
sprayed in the air, or inhaled. You can also massage the oils into the skin or
pour them into bath water.
Pure oils are highly
concentrated so it is always best to consult with an aromatherapy expert if you
have any questions regarding health interactions. Never use undiluted oils
directly on the skin and never take them internally unless working directly
with a certified practitioner.
Is aromatherapy safe?
It is important to talk
with your medical doctor to see whether aromatherapy may be helpful and safe
for your specific health condition.
Do not swallow the oils
used in aromatherapy. Many of the oils are potent and can be dangerous if taken
internally (swallowed).
Children younger than age
5 should not use aromatherapy, because they can be very sensitive to the oil.
Nor should anyone use oils near the eyes or mouth, because irritation of the
skin and membranes may occur.
People with certain
chronic illnesses or conditions should not use aromatherapy without first
consulting a doctor. These illnesses and conditions include:
* Lung conditions such as asthma,
respiratory allergies, or chronic lung disease. Oils may cause airway spasms.
* Skin allergies. Some oils may cause skin
irritation, especially in the membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
* Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not use
aromatherapy. Some oils (such as juniper, rosemary, and sage) may cause uterine
contractions.
Always tell your doctor if
you are using an alternative therapy or if you are thinking about combining an
alternative therapy with your conventional medical treatment. It may not be
safe to forgo your conventional medical treatment and rely only on an
alternative therapy.
REMEMBER:
" MORE " IS NOT " BETTER "
